2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2012 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota 4Runner (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 868 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Toyota 4Runner is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Toyota 4Runner. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Toyota 4Runner (376 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Toyota 4Runner | |
Make | Mazda | Toyota |
Model | 3 | 4Runner |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 376 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 2053 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4823 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1925 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1816 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2789 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 87 L |